But it is the attacking threat that will concern most opposition teams with some of the world's leading forwards named in the squad.

Santos' Neymar has scored nine goals in 18 games for the senior Brazil team, while Hulk and AC Milan's Pato have also impressed for the full side.

Young Premier League players Rafael, of Manchester United, and Tottenham midfielder Sandro have also been included.

Following defeats against Mexico and Argentina in warm-up games last month, Menezes identified a problem in finding effective defensive players under 23 years old and has turned to two more experienced men in Silva and Marcelo.